In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, Stranger Things stars Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour shared laughter and embraced each other on the red carpet at the premiere of the much-anticipated fifth and final season of their hit Netflix series. This joyful moment comes in the wake of unconfirmed reports suggesting discord between the two actors, which they appeared to put behind them as they celebrated the show’s legacy in Los Angeles.
Netflix captured the duo’s playful interactions, showcasing their chemistry and friendship in front of eager fans and media. Just before the series launch, Brown expressed her gratitude for working alongside Harbour, stating in an interview with Extra: "It's been amazing, we're so lucky to have each other. The show means so much to both of us and to everyone here." Her sentiments were echoed by Harbour, who told Entertainment Tonight, "I adore her. I've been proud to watch all of them grow up to become such great artists. I doubt it'll be the last time we'll work together."
Amid the swirling rumors, co-creator of Stranger Things, Ross Duffer, addressed the media during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. While he refrained from delving into personal matters on set, he emphasized the familial bond among the cast, stating, "Nothing matters more than just having a set where everyone feels safe and happy." This commitment to a positive work environment was echoed by executive producer Shawn Levy, who highlighted the importance of creating a respectful workplace. Levy commented, "I've read a bunch of stories, and they range from wildly inaccurate to... there's so much noise around it. But the truth is that we view this crew and this cast as family, and so we treat each other with respect, and that's always been the bedrock."
Stranger Things has solidified its status as one of Netflix’s most beloved shows. In this critically acclaimed series, Brown portrays Eleven, a young girl with extraordinary powers who battles supernatural forces wreaking havoc in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. Harbour plays Jim Hopper, who assumes a fatherly role in protecting Eleven, often leading to tensions as she attempts to navigate a normal life with her friends.
The new season, which also features Winona Ryder, takes place 18 months after the conclusion of season four. However, the premiere episode will transport viewers back to the pivotal moment six days before Will Byers, one of Hawkins' children, mysteriously disappeared. Fans can look forward to the first four episodes being released in the US on November 26, with the next three episodes available on Christmas Day, and the highly anticipated finale set to air on New Year's Eve. In the UK, these episodes will be available a day later.
Both Brown and Harbour have recently found themselves in the media spotlight for various reasons. Harbour is currently making headlines following the release of his ex-wife Lily Allen's new record, West End Girl, which offers a candid account of their separation amidst allegations of infidelity. In her interviews, Allen has clarified that the lyrics reflect her emotional processing rather than being a definitive truth.
Millie Bobby Brown, now 21, has also been open about her experiences with media scrutiny. In a recent interview with Vogue, she discussed the challenges of being in the public eye, particularly regarding press invasiveness. She remarked, "I respect journalism. I love reading articles on my favorite people and hearing what they're up to. I understand that there's paparazzi, even though it's invasive... But don't, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it."
As Stranger Things prepares to conclude its remarkable journey, the cast and crew remain committed to fostering a supportive and respectful atmosphere, reinforcing the idea that they are more than just colleagues—they are family.